(Above) A high-profile line-up took part in the ceremony at Clarence House. © Amit Lennon, Arts & Business

Five of the UK’s most influential philanthropists were honoured at a ceremony at Clarence House last night.

The Prince of Wales presented the inaugural Medals for Arts Philanthropy to Dame Vivien Duffield, Roger de Haan, Dr Carol Høgel, Martin and Carmel Naughton and Lord and Lady Sainsbury, a group of beneficiaries Culture Minister Barbara Follett said deserve “profound thanks”.

De Haan, who sold the Saga group of companies four years ago after inheriting it from his father, was described as “a hero” by Arts Council England chief executive Alan Davey for his efforts to regenerate culture and the arts in his native Folkstone.

Roger de Haan's endeavours in Folkestone were recognised. © Amit Lennon, Arts & Business

Selfridges owner Dame Vivien was lauded by Southbank Centre owner Michael Lynch for her part in persuading major donors to support the Royal Festival Hall. She also raised £100 million for the Royal Opera House with Lord Sainsbury, who has provided arts organisations with more than £22 million in funding through the Linbury Trust.

Dr Carol Høgel has made significant contributions to Scottish arts institutions. © Amit Lennon, Arts & Business

The Naughtons have been instrumental in the emerging arts scene in Northern Ireland, most notably through a £1 million investment in the country’s Lyric theatre, and Dr Høgel was nominated by a string of Scottish arts institutions for the impact her Dunard Fund has made north of the border.

(Above) Lord and Lady Sainsbury were presented with medals. © Amit Lennon, Arts & Business

“Some people might think, with all the news of global recession and the dreadful impact that recession could have on our world, that celebrating arts philanthropy is like moving the metaphorical deckchairs on the Titanic,” said the Prince.

“The arts act as a beacon of light in dark times. They are a hallmark of our humanity and a means by which we articulate our suffering and our joy. So to honour people who have tirelessly supported, nourished and encouraged the arts through the good and bad times is enormously important.”

The medals will be presented annually from this year. © Amit Lennon, Arts & Business

The awards will take place annually, with this year’s winners chosen from a shortlist of 20 by a judging panel including actress Joanna Lumley, Royal Ballet director Dame Monica Mason and artist Christopher Le Brun.